Member Articles

The Big H (Hysterectomy)

My experience with hysterectomy

I never thought I would be writing an article regarding the Big H. At least that's what I like to call it. Hysterectomy. If you aren't sure what that is, it is the surgery that takes out your uterus. It's a pretty major decision for any woman especially if you are still in your 30's or 40's.

If you seem to be having OB/GYN issues such as major menstruation (otherwise known as heavy bleeding), or other issues, you may need to see your OB/GYN and ask to do tests. Always go get a second opinion, but do your research.

A great site for advice that I found was http://www.hystersisters.com they have pre op advice all the way to post op advice from other women who had hysterectomies.

I needed one back in November of 2006. I knew that I had issues before I had my son. In fact my OB/GYN doctor said to me "Well, you can try to have a baby, have menopausal medicine or have a hysterectomy." I went with the Have the baby option...While I was pregnant (at 36 years old), I didn't seem to have any problems at all. I knew that getting pregnant while I was a little older was risky, but I didn't want to waste my chance of having a child.

So, I had my son in 2004. However, things got worse after 6 months. The heavy bleeding came back and with a vengeance. It got so bad I had to go to the ER a few times as I thought I was a goner.

I wanted to wait it out, but near on my 38th birthday, I knew it was time to make the heaviest decision. D day. H day.

I want you all to know that it wasn't the easiest decision, but it was the best thing for me to do. Now, I am able to live my life without worrying so much, and I have my son to take care of. If I do decide I want another child, I can always adopt.

If you think starting a group here on Work It, Mom! would be appropriate, I wouldn't mind being involved somehow. I think it's important to discuss it, and happy to share my experience with others.